Top 6 Benefits of Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a strong antioxidant that can boost your blood antioxidant levels. Although many think of it as just being helpful to fight off the common cold, there is so much more to this crucial vitamin! Here are just a few of the countless benefits of Vitamin C:

Helping prevent and beat the common cold & flu

The common cold is caused by respiratory viruses and dozens of studies have shown that vitamin C reduces the incidence and severity of viral infections!

Increases Mood and Libido

Research has shown that vitamin C is essential for the synthesis of norepinephrine, a hormone and neurotransmitter that helps to regulate mood and improve energy and alertness.

Vitamin C also stimulates secretion of oxytocin, the ‘love hormone’ which regulates social interaction, pair bonding and sexual reproduction. In addition to its effect on hormones, the antioxidant properties of vitamin C may help to ward off feelings of depression and anxiety by reducing the oxidative state in the brain.

3. Skin and Hair

Collagen is a structural protein essential for firm, young-looking youthful skin. Vitamin C plays a vital role in the formation of collagen. It also leads to the growth of shiny, healthy and beautiful hair.

4. Fights Type 2 Diabetes

Vitamin C decreases TNF-alpha, causing an increase in the uptake of glucose in response to insulin. Most type 2 diabetics have low levels of vitamin C and supplementation has been shown to lower fasting blood sugar.

5. Fights Against Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

In CAD, the platelets form a blood clot (thrombosis) within the artery, obstructing the flow of blood to the heart. Nitric oxide has a variety of protective effects on blood vessels and platelets. Vitamin C increases the bioavailability of nitric oxide through its antioxidant activity.

Vitamin C supplements have been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease. These supplements may lower heart disease risk factors, including “bad” LDL cholesterol and blood triglycerides.

6. Decreases High Blood Pressure

Laboratory tests have shown that ascorbic acid promotes the synthesis of nitric oxide and improves nitric oxide bioactivity. Nitric oxide widens blood vessels and helps to maintain their elasticity. Vitamin C also improves the function of the endothelium, the inner lining of blood vessels and arteries. In addition, the antioxidant properties of vitamin C can help to combat oxidative stress, which is thought to contribute to high blood pressure.

Conclusion

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that must be obtained from the diet or supplements.

Overall, vitamin C supplements are a great and simple way to boost your vitamin C intake if you struggle to get enough from your diet. Our Balance Docs Vitamin C supplement is a great choice if your are looking for a supplement to add to your health regimen!

Our “Supplement of The Week” the week of December 23rd will be Vitamin C- the one and only time during the year our Vitamin C goes on sale! Make sure to stock up on your supplements at Peak Medical Clinic to keep you strong a healthy by visiting the link below!